Elizabeth Báthory. The Blood Countess.

Late 16th-century Hungary. Countess Elizabeth Báthory was born into one of the most powerful families in Europe. Wealthy, educated, and protected by her position, she ruled over vast estates while stories of cruelty began to spread through the surrounding villages. Young women entered her castles as servants and companions. Many never returned. Witnesses later described beatings, torture, mutilation, starvation, and murder carried out within the walls of Báthory’s homes. Some claimed she bathed in the blood of virgins to preserve her youth, earning her the name the Blood Countess—although that infamous detail may have been added to the legend long after her death. In 1610, authorities moved against her. Several servants were arrested, tried, and executed, while Báthory herself was never given a public trial. Instead, she was confined inside Čachtice Castle, where she remained until her death in 1614. Was Elizabeth Báthory one of history’s most prolific female serial killers, responsible for the deaths of dozens—or even hundreds—of young women? Or was she the victim of a political conspiracy designed to seize the fortune of a powerful widow? This is the bloody, controversial, and enduring legend of Elizabeth Báthory: The Blood Countess. Sources used for this podcast Support the show JOIN THE  HITCHED 2 HOMICIDE IN-LAWS AND OUTLAWS START KRIS CALVERT'S BOOKS TODAY FOR FREE Send Kris and Rob a Message H2H WEBSITE H2H on TWITTER H2H on INSTA     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.